Puffins of Exeter has recently expanded and opened a new central kitchen to provide healthy, nutritious meals for children across our five Exeter nurseries. We are looking for a committed and caring individual to join our growing kitchen team.
Hours & Working Pattern
- 37.5 to 40 hours per week
- Monday to Friday
- Year-round position
- Operating 51 weeks per year, with a one-week Christmas closure
- Closed on bank holidays
Salary
- Kitchen Assistant: National Minimum Wage (age appropriate)
Key Responsibilities
- Assisting with the preparation and serving of healthy, nutritious meals and snacks for children.
- Supporting the cook in preparing food to a high standard and in appropriate quantities.
- Maintaining kitchen cleanliness, including washing up, cleaning equipment, and ensuring food preparation areas are kept hygienic.
- Following food safety, hygiene, health and safety, and allergen management procedures at all times.
- Receiving, checking, storing, and rotating stock in line with food safety requirements.
- Assisting with the organisation of kitchen supplies and ensuring ingredients are readily available.
- Working collaboratively with the nursery team to support children's nutritional needs.
- Supporting the delivery of food, snacks and supplies between nursery settings, including driving a company vehicle where eligible and authorised to do so.
Essential Experience & Skills
- Understanding of food hygiene and safe working practices.
- Awareness of allergens and dietary requirements.
- Reliable, flexible and able to work well as part of a team.
- Good communication skills and the ability to work efficiently in a busy kitchen environment.
- Committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness, food safety, and organisation.
- Willingness to support food and supply deliveries between nursery settings where required.
Our Values
All candidates must demonstrate and uphold our core values:
- Kindness
- Communication
- Being Child‑Centred
Why Work for Puffins of Exeter?
- Friendly, supportive working environment
- No evening or weekend work
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Company pension
- Rewarding role supporting children's health and wellbeing
- Birthday day off after one year's service
- Self-Care Day
- Thorough training and mentoring
- Long Service Bonuses
Applicants Closing Date
Pay: Up to £12.71 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Experience:
- Catering : 1 year (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Food Hygiene Certificate (preferred)
Work Location: In person
